From the Egyptians to Mycenaeans to the Greeks to the Romans the Mediterranean has always been the lifeblood of trade in the western world. Roman grain flowed from Egypt to their vast empire , and now the Venetians grow fat exploiting it. With this structure your empire stakes it claims to the wealth of southern Europe and the near east. Your merchant will require your blessing and protection and in return you shall lay claim to a portion of their profits. Many great empires of established themselves by dominating the trade in the Mediterranean will you among them?